Aces Dominate Valkyries in WNBA Showdown: Las Vegas Cruises to 92-73 Victory

The Las Vegas Aces reaffirmed their status as a WNBA powerhouse on June 22, 2026, delivering a commanding 92-73 victory over the expansion Golden State Valkyries at Michelob Ultra Arena. The defending champions set the tone early, using their championship pedigree to overwhelm a young Valkyries squad still finding its identity in the league.

Match Overview

From the opening tip, the Aces imposed their will on both ends of the floor. Las Vegas shot a blistering 48% from the field while holding Golden State to just 38% shooting. The home team's defensive pressure forced 18 turnovers, which they converted into 24 fast-break points. The Valkyries, despite flashes of promise, could never close the gap beyond single digits after the first quarter.

The game marked the first regular-season meeting between these two franchises, with the Aces improving to 15-3 on the season while the Valkyries dropped to 5-13. Las Vegas dominated the boards, outrebounding Golden State 42-31, and showcased the depth that has made them a perennial title contender.

Key Moments

• First Quarter Surge: Las Vegas opened with a 14-2 run in the first four minutes, establishing a lead they would never relinquish. A three-pointer from Jackie Young and a mid-range jumper from A'ja Wilson highlighted the early burst.
• Second Quarter Pushback: Golden State trimmed the deficit to seven points late in the second quarter on back-to-back baskets from rookie guard Cameron Brink, but a 9-2 Aces run to close the half restored a comfortable 48-36 lead.
• Third Quarter Separation: The Aces exploded for 28 points in the third quarter, including 12 from point guard Chelsea Gray. A 15-3 run midway through the period effectively put the game out of reach at 76-52.
• Garbage Time Efficiency: With the outcome secure, Las Vegas emptied the bench, and reserve players maintained the intensity, outscoring the Valkyries 16-15 in the final frame.

Standout Performers

A'ja Wilson led the Aces with a double-double of 26 points and 14 rebounds, shooting 11-of-18 from the field. Her two-way presence anchored Las Vegas on both ends, as she also recorded three blocks and two steals.

Chelsea Gray orchestrated the offense with 18 points and 11 assists, her court vision creating easy opportunities for teammates. She finished +22 in plus-minus for the game.

For the Valkyries, Kate Martin continued her strong rookie campaign with a team-high 19 points on 7-of-15 shooting, adding five rebounds. Cameron Brink chipped in 12 points and four blocks, showing promise as a defensive anchor.

Table Impact and Season Context

The victory solidifies Las Vegas's hold on second place in the WNBA standings, trailing only the New York Liberty in the race for the top seed. The Aces now boast the league's best home record at 9-1. Golden State, meanwhile, remains in the bottom tier of the standings but has shown improvement after a rocky start to their inaugural season. The team's young core will need time to develop chemistry, but games like this provide valuable experience against elite competition.

The Aces will look to extend their winning streak when they face the Seattle Storm on Thursday, while the Valkyries head to Los Angeles to take on the Sparks in a crucial West Coast matchup.